ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Terry Barr, who was a rookie on the Detroit Lions' last NFL championship team in 1957, died Thursday after an extended illness, the team said. He was 73.
Barr was a standout football and track athlete at Grand Rapids (Mich.) Central High School and a star running back and defensive back at the University of Michigan. He was a third-round draft pick in 1957 and played defensive back for the Lions, returning an interception for a touchdown in their 59-14 NFL title game victory over the Cleveland Browns.
Barr later switched to wide receiver and made two appearances, in 1963 and 1964, at the position. He played nine seasons with the Lions.
Barr is survived by his wife, three sons and their families. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press
